Turmeric. The Genus Curcuma. Medicinal And Arom...
In folk medicine, turmeric has been used in therapeutic preparations over the centuries in different parts of the world. In Ayurvedic practices, turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties including strengthening the overall energy of the body, relieving gas, dispelling worms, improving digestion, regulating menstruation, dissolving gallstones, and relieving arthritis. Many South Asian countries use it as an antiseptic for cuts, burns, and bruises, and as an antibacterial agent. In Pakistan, it is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, and as a remedy for gastrointestinal discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders. In Pakistan and Afghanistan, turmeric is used to cleanse wounds and stimulate their recovery by applying it on a piece of burnt cloth that is placed over a wound. Indians use turmeric, in addition to its Ayurvedic applications, to purify blood and remedy skin conditions. Turmeric paste is used by women in some parts of India to remove superfluous hair. Turmeric paste is applied to the skin of the bride and groom before marriage in some parts of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, where it is believed to make the skin glow and keep harmful bacteria away from the body. Turmeric is currently used in the formulation of several sunscreens. Several multinational companies are involved in making face creams based on turmeric.
Turmeric. The Genus Curcuma. Medicinal and Arom...
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Abstract
Introduction
Antioxidant activity of Turmeric
Anti-cancer effect of Turmeric
Inflammatory and Edematic Conditions
Photo-protection activity of Turmeric
Conclusion
Conflict of Interest
Funding/Support
Acknowledgement
References
AbstractThe objective of this comprehensive review assesses research analysing the nutraceutical qualities and bioactive compounds within turmeric that contribute to human nutrition, health promotion and chronic disease prevention. Curcuma longa L. (root and rhizome), commonly known as turmeric, is a plant of high medicinal and economic value globally, where it is mainly used as a spice and food supplement. The major active ingredients of turmeric include three curcuminoids; curcumin (diferuloylmethane, the primary constituent responsible for yellow color of turmeric), demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. In addition, volatile oils (tumerone, atlantone, and zingiberene) also have pharmacological activity. In addition, carbohydrates, proteins, and resins are also present in turmeric. Turmeric has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is a superior antioxidant. The anticancer property of turmeric may be closely related to its anti-inflammatory property.
The genus Curcuma pertains to the Zingiberaceae family and consists of 70-80 species of perennial rhizomatous herbs. This genus originates in the Indo-Malayan region and it is broadly spread all over the world across tropical and subtropical areas. This study aims to provide more information about morphological features, biological activities, and phytochemicals of genus Curcuma for further advanced research. Because of its use in the medicinal and food industries, Curcuma is an extremely important economic genus. Curcuma species rhizomes are the source of a yellow dye and have traditionally been utilized as spices and food preservatives, as a garnishing agent, and also utilized for the treatment of various illnesses because of the chemical substances found in them. Furthermore, Because of the discovery of new bioactive substances with a broad range of bioactivities, including antioxidants, antivirals, antimicrobials and anti-inflammatory activities, interest in their medicinal properties has increased. Lack of information concerning morphological, phytochemicals, and biological activities is the biggest problem that the researcher encountered. This review recommended that collecting information concerning the Curcuma genus may be providing more opportunities for further advanced studies lead to avoid wasting time and use this information for further research on bioactive compounds which are beneficial in medicinal purposes.
Turmeric is a member of the Curcuma botanical group, which is part of the ginger family of herbs, the Zingiberaceae. Its botanical name is Curcuma longa. Turmeric is widely grown both as a kitchen spice and for its medicinal uses. Two closely related plants, Curcuma petolata and Curcuma roscoeana, are natives of Cambodia and are grown for their decorative foliage and blossoms. All curcumas are perennial plants native to southern Asia. They grow in warm, humid climates and thrive only in temperatures above 60F (29.8C). India, Sri Lanka, the East Indies, Fiji, and Queensland (Australia) all have climates that are conducive to growing turmeric. 041b061a72